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Bud Commander; Washington Store Highlight

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dsc00102Bud Commander

849 Trosper Rd. SW Ste. 207, Tumwater, 98512

budcommander.com

Interviewed: David Moore, Co-Founder/Co-Owner

How and when did the store start up?

If we are talking about the beginning, it began with MoreHemp Co, June 1996 on Olympia’s west side in the middle of the hemp movement. After two-to-three years we closed the doors, then Bud Commander opened January 12, 2015 with the passage of I-502.

What’s the story behind the name of the store?

Well after the first interview with WSLCB, we needed to change our name. Bud Commander became the obvious choice for a few reasons, for one it is kind of catchy with a nice ring to it, besides being a fan of the Robertson’s and their story. Somewhere someone came up with this “War on Drugs,” just thought it was time we all had an ally.

What does the store offer customers they can’t find anywhere else?

We knew buying marijuana should be an experience, and we wanted an interactive store where the customers would feel comfortable and informed by the staff to make it a fun experience, that way they would want to return and be in the presence of Hoobe Doobe again.

How has the industry changed since you began?

Medical became legal in 1998 and with the passing of I-502 marijuana has become acceptable, with all the marketing it seems they realize it is okay to be baked from morning to night as functioning individuals. I would like to see it be returned back to the culture and away from the businesses that are in it just to make money. Let’s face it, the only reason it is accepted is because there is a dollar attached. If there wasn’t our dollar we would still be looked at as losers even though we’re not the minority anymore.

What are the biggest challenges as a cannabis store? Biggest joys?

Biggest challenge is being taken seriously. Biggest joys are all the little things as well as customer gratitude and appreciation. We have a great relationship with our bank (Timberland Bank). Paying our taxes, having staff get an income tax return from the federal government for selling pot and the look in Mrs. Bud Commander’s eyes.

What is the one thing you want customers to know about your store?

That we are able to give back to the community because of their commitment to us. Such as our holiday charities, Okanagan Co. fire victims, to our recent honor for being involved with the Adopt a Highway Program.

What is the most important thing you hope to accomplish while in the cannabis community?

I have a little trouble with this question since the cannabis community has been a way of life for most of ours, I don’t see us leaving soon. With regard to accomplishments, hopefully we can make a little difference in our own way. For those confused, stop by and read our mission statement.

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